Nitrogen (N) is more electronegative than hydrogen (H). Which of the following is a correct statement about the atoms in ammonia (NH3)?
A) Each hydrogen atom has a partial positive charge; the nitrogen atom has a partial negative charge.
B) Ammonia has an overall positive charge.
C) Ammonia has an overall negative charge.
D) The nitrogen atom has a partial positive charge; each hydrogen atom has a partial negative charge.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since nitrogen is more electronegative than hydrogen, it attracts the shared electrons in the NH3 molecule more strongly, resulting in a partial negative charge on the nitrogen atom and a partial positive charge on each hydrogen atom.

Nitrogen (N) Is More Electronegative Than Hydrogen (H)